Numerical simulation techniques to predict aneurysm recanalization after coil embolization and their problems

Various coil modeling techniques have been applied for computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analysis to predict recanalization after aneurysm coil embolization. Investigation on the technical difficulties and the effects on CFD analysis results when using the four main coil modeling methods (solid model, porous model, Dynamic Path Planning, finite element method (FEM) structural analysis) revealed that the expertise required for the analysis as well as the time needed for the analysis increased the more the results were realistic. In addition, by applying the four coil modeling methods to cases that actually underwent coil embolization surgery, hemodynamic factors such as blood flow velocity or mass flow rate were reported to have an effect on the occurrence of recanalization. It was also reported that the consideration of hemodynamic factors is useful for predicting recanalization. Although various validations are required, CFD analysis may be a useful tool for predicting recanalization of aneurysms after coil embolization in the future.